Dialysis
Unfortunately, many patients who suffer from Chronic Kidney Disease will lose kidney function at some point (either acutely or chronically) and need a modality to replace the functions of the human kidney. Dialysis is one method of renal replacement therapy. Dialysis can be performed in two ways:
Hemodialysis – This method uses an external machine that acts as an artificial kidney. The patient’s blood will be taken from their body and moved to this machine. The machine will then perform the role of the kidney by removing excess fluid, correcting electrolytes, removing waste products and buffering acid production. Once these items have been performed, the blood will be returned to the patient’s body.
Peritoneal Dialysis – In this method, a fluid is added to the patient’s abdominal cavity. This fluid helps to perform the job of the kidney by removing water, correcting electrolytes, removing waste products and buffering acids. Once these activities have been completed, the fluid, along with the bodily waste products, are drained from the patient’s body.
Many patients will go to a dialysis facility multiple times a week to receive hemodialysis however, there are opportunities for both hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis to be performed in the comfort of your own home. If you elect to pursue home dialysis, you will need to receive training on how to perform whichever mode of dialysis you select in a safe and knowledgeable manner. The greatest benefit to home dialysis for many patients is that they are able to perform dialysis independently and on their own schedule, from home. Please be sure to work directly with your nephrologist to determine the best option for you and your lifestyle should you be required to go on dialysis.